Ford's new sporty S-MAX has achieved a class-leading five star rating under the Euro NCAP crash test.

Together with the Focus, Ford offers two vehicles that achieved a maximum rating in Euro NCAP. With two stars and 13 points, Ford S-MAX also achieved a competitive result for pedestrian protection.

Gisbert Gaeb, manager of vehicle safety for Ford of Europe, said: "Through our comprehensive safety approach we are continually improving the active and passive safety of our vehicles.

"With the new S-MAX, we have further enhanced our Intelligent Protection System (IPS) by introducing a driver's knee airbag in combination with a sophisticated collapsible steering column and an ultra-stiff body structure.

"This five-star performance in the Euro NCAP tests clearly underlines our no-compromise strategy to safety."